Patanase approved for seasonal allergies

The FDA has approved Patanase (olopatadine hydrochloride nasal spray, from Alcon) for the relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients ≥12 years of age. This approval is supported by multiple double-blind clinical trials that showed significant decreases in nasal allergy symptoms in Patanase-treated patients compared to placebo. Alcon expects Patanase to be available by May 2008.